Pizza Dough

Perfectly chewy, crispy and bubbly, this pizza crust will put that take out pizza to shame. Within an hour, you too can make a quality pizza crust.

Even before my boyfriend got an Ooni pizza oven for Christmas, we were making homemade pizza at least a couple of times a month. It was so easy, inexpensive, and delicious! Of course, this didn’t come without experimenting and perfecting our signature pizza crust.

Pizza Crust Ingredients

• – Bread Flour: The foundation of the crust, providing structure and chewiness. All-purpose flour can be substituted but will result in a softer, less chewy texture.

• – Instant Yeast: Allows the dough to rise quickly, making the process more efficient. No need to proof separately—just mix it in with the dry ingredients. If using dry active yeast, bloom in warm water first to make sure is it awake and kicking.

• – Warm Water: Activates the yeast and helps create a pliable dough. Make sure it’s around 110°F (43°C) to avoid killing the yeast.

• – Olive Oil: Adds flavor, moisture, and a slight crispiness to the crust. You can substitute with melted butter or vegetable oil if needed.

• – Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the crust. Don’t skip this, as it balances the yeast’s activity and prevents bland dough.

Pizza Crust Recipe Tips

• – Use warm water (but not too hot!): Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast, while water that’s too cold will slow down the rising process.

• – Let the dough rest: Allowing the dough to rise slightly before baking helps develop a better texture and flavor. The dough can rest in the fridge for up to 2 days and can also allow the yeast to develop additional flavor.

• – Preheat your oven properly: A hot oven (475°F/245°C) ensures a crispy crust. Baking on a pizza stone or preheated pan can improve results.

• – Don’t overwork the dough: Over-kneading can make the crust tough. Knead just until it becomes smooth and elastic.

• – Customize your crust: Brush with olive oil or garlic butter before baking for added flavor.

Pizza Crust

Directions

Step 1: Mix the Dough

1. – In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer), combine the flour and salt.

1. – Add the yeast, water, and olive oil to the flour mixture.

1. – Using a dough hook (if using a stand mixer) or your hands, mix the dough until it forms a rough ball. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. – Knead the dough for about 5 minutes (either by hand or with a stand mixer) until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, use medium speed.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

1. – Lightly oil a bowl and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.

1. – Let the dough rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it has partly risen. It won’t double in size but will expand slightly.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

1. – Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).

Step 5: Shape the Crusts

1. – Once the dough has rested, divide it into two equal portions.

1. – Roll each portion into a ball and then stretch or roll them out on a lightly floured surface to form two 12-inch pizza crusts.

Step 7: Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. – Place the pizza crusts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

Step 8: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

1. – Add your desired toppings to the crust.

1. – Bake for 10-15 more minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

1. – Remove from the oven, slice, and enjoy your homemade pizza!